A Young Life Lost

As you know, I work in a photo lab. I have shared stories of the people I have spent time working with when it comes to pictures. I've seen many different parts of our world and heard many stories. Most are good but you have the sad ones too that tend to stick with you. When people process their pictures they are letting you into their lives.

In honor of Staff Sgt Matthew Ingham, who has given his life for our country I will share one of those sad stories.

Throughout the week our local news has told the story of Matthew Ingham. How he stood up to fight and lost his own life while saving the lives of twelve other soldiers. In his short life of twenty five years this young man was very well known in his school years. He married his school sweetheart who he had known since eighth grade and he joined the U.S. Marines.

This week this young man's body was brought home to Altoona, Pennsylvania. His public viewing and funeral will be held this week end. Our Governor Rendell has announced that all flags in the Blair county and Harrisburg, our state capitol fly at half mask in his honor.

This is a story we hear all the time, many times throughout our country. Mothers, fathers, children, husbands, wives, etc. We all hear and imagine the pain. Yes, we can only imagine unless we are so unfortunate to live it.

Today my day started with family members bringing in their precious memories of this young man. Recognizing a couple pictures from the local news it wrenched my guts. All working together to make collages and reminders of a life he seemed to lived to the fullest. Family planning to help comfort his most loved ones through saying good bye to this young hero.

Having a son of my own in the service who has served in Iraq twice. Reminded how I had to take it one day at a time every day he was there. As any mother praying every day that her children who are grown now with families of their own are far from her protection.

When I saw those pictures and heard those stories it reminded me of how I would pray to my God. How i would ask that he would not want my son that day and if he would choose to do so, help me deal with it. Here was family dealing with my biggest fear and I could only imagine.

So for this brave young man and all the brave men and women serving our country wherever they may be this story is for you. Thank you and may God be with each and everyone of you.